Phionah Nagaba is a social entrepreneur, software engineer, and youth leader from Kabuyanda in Western Uganda. Growing up in a rural community where poverty, unemployment, and waste were everyday realities, she developed a deep commitment to creating solutions that empower youth, improve livelihoods, and protect the environment. With a degree in Software Engineering from Makerere University, she combines technical skills with a passion for grassroots leadership.

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She is the Founder of Jukye Youth Impact Hub, a community-based initiative whose name means “remember us.” The hub transforms banana waste — of which Kabuyanda produces more than 300 tons monthly — into sustainable products such as organic fertilizer using Black Soldier Fly technology, banana flour to combat malnutrition, soap for local markets, and biodegradable sanitary pads from banana fibers. To date, Jukye has trained more than 60 rural youth and women, produced over 900 kilograms of fertilizer, made 1,500 bars of soap, and milled 800 kilograms of banana flour, while also piloting sanitary pads to reduce school absenteeism among girls. These innovations create jobs, reduce environmental degradation, and improve public health in underserved communities.

Phionah is also a BeVisioneers: Mercedes-Benz Fellow and serves as a Local Hub Ambassador, organizing sustainability-focused events and mentoring young leaders. She has been recognized for her work by programs such as the Mountaintop Community Champions, where she hosted global conversations on youth empowerment. Her leadership is grounded in her Anglican faith, which has shaped her values of resilience, service, and integrity since childhood.

For her Mountaintop Fellowship, Phionah is expanding Jukye Youth Impact Hub by establishing a vocational training center that will equip 100 youth with skills in composting, soap-making, book production, and block crafting, while creating at least 50 micro-businesses within three years. Her vision is to transform rural waste into wealth and opportunity, ensuring that youth and women in Kabuyanda can build dignified, sustainable futures.